As I am preparing for applying for a show at a local gallery, I’ve been writing a bunch of supporting documents to turn in with my application. One of those things is an artist statement. I’ve never had one of those before. While thinking through what I want that to say, I decided to make a list of “Why I Make Things” to try and jump start my brain for this process. I thought I’d share my list with you: my four loyal readers.
I make things because I can.
I make the things that I want to look at.
I make the things that I can’t find in the world.
I make things that look like what the inside of my head looks like.
I make things because I can’t stop.
I make things that are all the colors of the rainbow because rainbows speak to me of wholeness and unity.
I make things because I want others to have a piece of who I am.
I make things because I want to share my joy.
I make things because I want to spread around some beauty.
I make things because I want others to know that anyone can make things.
I make things because its always been the dream of my heart.
I make things because I want my kids to grow up in a world where they see not just their dad but also their mom chase their dreams.
I make things because I want my kids to be self reliant and know they can figure out and solve problems.
I make things because I like butterflies and the world needs more butterflies.
I make things because I can’t NOT make things.
I love your list. That are all so you and I love you just the way you are.
Thanks, May!
I’m constantly surprised how many of the things I write really boil down to “I want to read this story and it doesn’t exist yet so if I want to experience it, I’m gonna have to create it myself.” The more practice I get, the better the cost/benefit tradeoff is in terms of effort required and enjoyment received.
This is a relatively new concept for me but for the past few weeks I’ve been looking around to try and find things that look like the things I make and there just aren’t very many out there. Which causes me to scratch my head a little bit because I wouldn’t have thought that the things I like are all that unique. Apparently they are that unique. So maybe if I make them, others can enjoy them too or decide to make their own unique thing. I’m really good with any of that. All that to say: SAME.
I make things because it’s who I am.
(also this list rocks)
Thanks, Katie!! 🙂
I love hearing people share about the creative process – it is so cool to hear the why for you. Thanks for sharing!
You are in luck, Kelli! I have a bunch of posts coming in that vein. I’ve been preparing documents for an art exhibit and I’m writing an arts grant so I’ll be sharing some of those writings over the next few weeks.
I love your list.
It inspired me to make my own.
Ooh! I can’t wait to read it!